How to Survive Your First Festival

By Abigail Ptacek in Collaboration with Emily Stabell

Pack your outfits and get in! We're going to Lollapalooza

Lollapalooza 2026 is taking place in Grant Park in Chicago, IL, on the weekend of July 30

- Aug 2nd!

In order to have the best weekend filled with fangirl moments, scream your favorite

songs, and making it out to tell the tale, keep these few things in mind!

Know where you're going/have a game plan!

With six different entrances, eight stages, and over 170 artists performing, a lot is going on! Take a look at the map, the schedule, and make a plan of where to be and

when. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with where you can find cooling

stations, merchandise, restrooms, and other important stations!

Be prepared for anything! (pack portable charger, pack poncho, know stations)

The art of packing a good bag is important, especially for a festival! Make sure you abide

by their bag policies:

"Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6" x 9" or smaller do not need to be clear,

but can have no more than one pocket.

All other bags larger than 6" x 9" must be smaller than 12" x 6" x 12" and clear.

Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid

and have no more than two total pockets. One for the reservoir and one additional

pocket".

Also, follow Lollapalooza accounts on social media to stay in the loop of any

information, weather-wise! A poncho might be nice to have on hand...

Keep your artists close but your friends closer!

Have an artist you're dying to see? Plan and know what stage they'll be at and

when.

Pro tip: If they're performing after another popular artist, it might be worth getting there

the set before to get a good spot! Be sure to have a group to travel with, and make sure

you're always with someone!

Stay Hydrated!

It'll be a rainy one, but still hot! Staying hydrated is the most important part of all! Check

out the Liquid IV Flavor House or Dunkin' Refreshers for a cooldown!!

And lastly...HAVE FUN!!!

Here are some additional resources, but make sure to check out Lollapalooza's official website for more information.